Policenauts is an incredible game directed by Kojima Hideo and realized by Konami. Unfortunately all versions of this game are only available in it's original Japanese language, although it is commonly believed that the game was planned from the beginning to have an English version and that it was cancelled.

The game features digitized anime and stills achieving what was called in it's trailers as "The next generation of Snatcher". Adding to the genre it achieves a richer interface by using a cursor to select items displayed on screen (in some versions aided by a mouse) and more dynamic shooting sequences that are not limited to a 3x3 grid. The Sega Saturn version even has gun support, being the last version that was released of the game.

The detail, depth of story, character definition, visuals that include Computer Graphics incredibly advanced for it's time and an impressive soundtrack have made hundreds of fans desire a translated version, and those that have played it cherish it as one of the greatest pieces of interactive digital art created. Kojima has demonstrated through multiple references in Metal Gear Solid that this is one of his favorite creations, for instance the small piece of music played during the Konami logo in Metal Gear Solid is from this game; Meryl first appeared on this title; the Marine's computer OS in Metal Gear Solid 2 tanker scene was created by Tokugawa; the video shown while Otacon speaks about anime and the posters hanging from the wall (replaced by Anubis references in the Twin Snakes version); some card board boxes in MGS 2; the EMPS in Zone of the Enders and even a poster in MGS2 to name the ones I know about.

But the most important evidence that this is a game that Kojima really appreciates, is simply that he has been involved as director in every single version and port of the game, unlike Snatcher and Metal Gear.

I have been working on dumping the text, hope to have you positive news in the near future. Please visit the Policenauts translation page if you want to help or simply follow the progress.

I am grateful to James from Shadow Moses for helping me acquire some of the rarest pieces in this set. If you want in-depth information about Policenauts such as character information and general data you won't find elsewhere, do yourself a favor and visit the Beyond Coast Policenauts Museum. You might also want to visit the Policenauts message board at the Kojima forums.